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GenU 9ja: Helping Nigeria Raise The Youth Empowerment Bar

November 30, 2023 3 Min Read

In a high-level meeting that brought together influential private sector companies such as IHS Towers, Microsoft, Airtel, Unilever, ATC, Jobberman, Cisco, and MTN, alongside government officials, youth representatives, and UNICEF officials, the significant strides made by the GenU 9JA public-private-youth partnership platform in 2023 were meticulously assessed.

GenU 9JA has emerged as a pivotal force in bridging digital and skills gaps, amplifying the voices of millions of young Nigerians, and facilitating a smoother transition from learning to earning.

Addressing the Educational Crisis

In the face of Nigeria’s ongoing education crisis, GenU 9JA has played a crucial role in enhancing digital access, fostering learning, and nurturing soft and job-related skills among Nigerian children, adolescents, and youth.

The collaborative effort between private and public sectors has resulted in tangible improvements in addressing the pressing challenges faced by the nation’s youth.

Praise from Government Officials

The Commissioner of Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende lauded the initiative, stating that:

“UNICEF GenU 9JA embodies our commitment to youth empowerment, investing in Nigeria’s future and fostering a generation poised for sustainable development and economic prosperity.”

UNICEF’s Representative in Nigeria, Cristian Munduate, highlighted the urgency of such initiatives, emphasizing the platform’s critical role in securing Nigeria’s future.

“With a significant portion of the Nigerian population lacking access to quality services, a public-private-youth partnership platform such as GenU 9JA is critical for our nation’s future.”

Partnerships for Holistic Support

The Director Partnerships at Tony Elumelu Foundation, Iruka Ndubuizu stressed the importance of private sector involvement, aiming to provide holistic support to young people and contribute to a resilient economy fueled by Nigeria’s most valuable asset—its youth.

In her words:

“The private sector’s involvement in this platform is aimed at providing holistic support to young people and nurturing a resilient economy fueled by our most valuable asset – our Youth”.

GenU Naija Key Achievements in 2023

1. Connectivity and Digital Learning: GenU 9JA exceeded targets, benefiting over 2 million young people in connected underserved communities and 820 schools.

Platforms like the Nigeria Learning Passport and the Youth Agency Market Place played pivotal roles in boosting learning.

2. Workplace Readiness: The initiative equipped over 800,000 young Nigerians with essential skills and livelihood opportunities.

Platforms like YOMA connected users to diverse learning and engagement opportunities provided by private sector partners.

3. Youth Engagement: UNICEF’s U-Report reached nearly 5.5 million young people, and youth actively contributed to volunteering experiences, enhancing their work experience and driving change for children in Nigeria.

Looking to the Future

As GenU 9JA sets its sights on the future, the recent meeting served as a reflective and strategic session aimed at further empowering Nigerian youth.

The public-private partnership remains steadfast in creating a nurturing environment for every young Nigerian to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.